PIC's staff members are devoted to bringing life the organization's mission, and creating a space for Pacific Islanders to share their voices through the language of film.

Our Mission

The mission of Pacific Islanders in Communications (PIC) is to support, advance, and develop Pacific Island media content and talent that results in a deeper understanding of Pacific Island history, culture, and contemporary challenges.

Meet the Team

Leanne Kaʻiulani Ferrer is the Executive Director. She has over 25 years of experience in the film and television industry. She is an award-winning filmmaker who previously worked for Disney Films, PBS Hawaii, and 1013 Integrated (formerly known as Pacific Focus, Inc., Hawaiʻi's longest running full-service production company).

What is your all time favorite movie and why? Two of my all-time favorite films are The Terminator and Terminator 2: Judgment Day (Special Editions, uncut). I can't watch one without the other. The glimpse into the post-apocalyptic future, pending Judgment Day, the T-800 vs. T-1000, dreamy Kyle Reese, Sarah Conner's transformation, great catchphrases, romance, comedy, drama, action, adventure, sci-fi! The entire package, all in two awesome movies! Those are my top desert island downloads!

Cheryl Hirasa is the Director of Program Development & Content Strategy. In her role at PIC, she oversees the development and distribution of all projects funded through various initiatives and is the series producer for Pacific Heartbeat, PIC's signature series on public television. She previously was the Senior Production Manager the Independent Television Service (ITVS).

What is your all time favorite movie and why? Spies Like Us. It makes me laugh no matter how many times I've seen it.

Maluhia Kaimikaua is the Management & Events Coordinator. She is the first person you will see when you come to the PIC office. With her Aloha spirit and an ear-to-ear smile, no wonder people enjoy coming to the office! She finds happiness in her job by being able to work with awesome coworkers and passionate media making people she meets on the way. She previously worked at Hawaii Medical Center East and Homestreet Bank.

What is your all time favorite movie and why? Trolls, because its such a happy go lucky movie, and I love to dance, and these TROLLS can get down! "I got that feeling, inside my bones... it goes electric wavey when I turn it on...I got that sunshine in my pocket, got that good song in my feet.... just dance, dance, dance!" Love dancing to this movie with my keiki's.